Lucas inks short-term deal with Rovers

Lucas Neill has negotiated a one-month loan switch from Watford to fellow Championship side Doncaster Rovers in a bid for more playing time ahead of the World Cup.

Lucas Neill has negotiated a one-month loan switch from Watford to fellow English Championship side Doncaster in a bid for more playing time ahead of June-s World Cup.

The Socceroos veteran has been unable to get a start with Watford since signing last month as a free agent and has been allowed to join Rovers on loan until 22 April.

Neill had managed just six minutes off the bench in his only appearance for 12th-placed side and will be desperate for more playing time in a side stooped in a relegation battle.

Speaking to his latest club-s official club website Neill said he was looking forward to linking up with former Blackburn teammate Paul Dickov, who manages Doncaster.

“I have chosen to join Paul Dickov at Doncaster because of a positive conversation we had about the remaining games,” said Neill.

“Having played with the manager during our Blackburn days, I know the style of his team's play will reflect that of his playing career and that is a competitive, hard working and energetic style.

“Doncaster were impressive in their victory over Watford a few weeks ago and given they are in the same league as Watford, I know the remaining games this season will be fiercely competitive.

“I am looking forward to joining my new team mates and working hard to earn their respect and help them have a successful end to the season.”

Neill will make an immediate switch and be eligible to debut this Saturday when Doncaster travel to Elland Road to face Leeds United.

The 36-year-old defender will be hoping the move can keep his hopes of going third consecutive World Cup alive. Coach Ange Postecoglou being clear in his mandate players need to be playing regularly in order to be considered for Brazil.

Postecoglou, who was present at Wednesday night's draw for next year-s AFC Asian Cup, will name a preliminary 30-man Socceroos squad in mid-May.